The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) has confirmed 28 additional mosquito samples that tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This brings the total number of positive samples within the District’s service area to 63 this year. The new positive samples were collected from 11 different communities: Artesia, Cerritos, Hawaiian Gardens, La Habra Heights, Long Beach, Porter Ranch, Rowland Heights, San Fernando, Santa Fe Springs, South Whittier, and Tarzana. The first mosquito sample to test positive for WNV in the City of La Habra Heights was collected in the City on July 27, 2022. GLACVCD staff will place posters around the trap locations to advise residents to take precautions when mosquitoes are present.
West Nile virus is endemic to Los Angeles County, and warm temperatures can increase virus activity and mosquito populations. WNV is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no cure for WNV. One in five persons infected with the virus will exhibit symptoms. Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash. There is no human vaccine for WNV, and severe cases can lead to paralysis or even death.
Mosquito Prevention and Protection
Mosquito control is a shared responsibility and residents must take an active role in reducing the threat of WNV in their neighborhoods by taking the following steps:
- Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything that holds water for more than a week.
- Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
- Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths and other small containers weekly.
- Request mosquitofish from your local vector control district for placement in ornamental ponds.
- Wear insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.
- Report neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood to your vector control district.